Perhaps you're not a fan of using patterns, PINs, or passwords to unlock your smartphone -- either it's too much hassle or you often forget what you picked. With the Samsung Galaxy S3 you can set up voice commands for doing things like unlocking the device, checking missed calls, or starting the camera. All you need to do is tap the power button and say one of your preset commands.

Here's how to set up your lock screen voice commands:

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 1: Open the Settings menu and then head to the Security and lock screen option.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 2: From the next menu, tap on Lock screen options. Then, you'll need to scroll to the very bottom of the next screen to choose Set wake-up command.

The first option in this area is the command you can set to wake up S Voice, Samsung's voice assistant software. However, if you're more interested in setting an unlock command first, continue on with Step 3.

Step 4: When you're ready to start recording your voice command for the function, tap on the mic button at the bottom of the screen.

Screenshot by Nicole Cozma/CNET

Step 5: You'll need to repeat the voice command four times so the Samsung Galaxy S3 can accurately learn the word. The phone will tell you when it has accepted all four attempts by displaying a Done button.

These commands are also very useful if you have the device in a dock on your desktop with the screen on, but locked.

Do you think the voice commands from the lock screen are useful? Do you think there are more options that should be included? Let us know in the comments!

This content is rated TV-MA, and is for viewers 18 years or older. Are you of age?

About the author

Nicole Cozma has an affinity for Android apps and devices, but loves technology in general. Based out of the Tampa Bay Area, she enjoys being a spectator to both sunsets and lightning storms.
See full bio